The Maze is the least accessible district of Canyonlands. Due to the district’s remoteness and the difficulty of roads and trails, travel to the Maze requires more time, as well as a greater degree of self-sufficiency. Rarely do visitors spend less than three days in the Maze, and the area can easily absorb a week-long trip.

Hiking & Backpacking: Trails in the Maze are primitive and lead into canyons and to various viewpoints. Due to the deep, steep-walled nature of Maze canyons, access to them is limited. Routes into the canyons are cairned from mesa top to canyon bottom, but routes through washes are often unmarked. Many of the canyons look alike and are difficult to identify without a topographic map.

The Maze Overlook Trail and other routes in the district require basic climbing maneuvers in order to negotiate sections of steep slickrock and pour-offs. A 25-foot length of rope is often essential for raising or lowering packs in difficult spots. Many routes may make hikers with a fear of heights uncomfortable.

Most trailheads start from four-wheel-drive roads. Visitors with two-wheel-drive vehicles may park at the North Point Road junction, approximately 2.5 miles southeast of the Hans Flat Ranger Station, and hike 15 miles to the Maze Overlook.

Depending on the vehicle, hikers may also be able to negotiate the 14 mile road to park at the top of the Flint Trail switchbacks. Backpackers stay in at-large zones. Permits are required for all overnight trips. There are several reliable springs in the canyons of the Maze. Inquire at the Hans Flat Ranger Station for more information.

Four-Wheel-Drive Roads: Four-wheel-drive roads in the Maze are extremely difficult, present considerable risk of vehicle damage, and should not be attempted by inexperienced drivers. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is required for all Maze backcountry roads. ATVs are not permitted.

The most commonly used road in the Maze is the Flint Trail, which traverses slopes of clay that are extremely slippery when wet. The Flint Trail is often closed during winter.

The road between Teapot camp and the Land of Standing Rocks is considered very difficult under any conditions and involves considerable risk of vehicle damage.

Permits are required for overnight trips. 4WD vehicle and mountain bike groups stay in designated sites and must provide their own toilet systems.